TULLAHOMA — A skydiving plane carrying about 20 people crashed shortly after takeoff from Tullahoma Regional Airport in Tennessee on Sunday, injuring multiple people on board, authorities said.
The de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, operated by Skydive Tennessee, experienced an issue during takeoff and crashed near the airport in Coffee County, the Federal Aviation Administration and Tennessee Highway Patrol reported. No fatalities occurred.
Emergency responders treated multiple injured individuals at the scene. At least six people were hospitalized, including one in critical condition, according to officials and local media reports citing authorities.
The National Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. Preliminary information indicated the plane was conducting skydiving operations when it aborted takeoff and impacted terrain, Skydive Tennessee said in a statement.
"The safety of our community, clients, and staff is our top priority," a representative for Skydive Tennessee stated. Details on the exact sequence of events and mechanical factors remain under review.
The aircraft departed the airport around 12:45 p.m. local time. Photos from the scene released by authorities showed the plane with visible damage, including a missing wing section.
Tullahoma Police Department and other local agencies responded to the incident. All individuals on board were accounted for, with survivors receiving medical attention at area hospitals.
Skydiving operations at the facility have been suspended pending the investigation. The FAA is assisting the NTSB with the probe, which typically examines factors such as pilot performance, aircraft maintenance and weather conditions at the time.
This incident marks a significant aviation event in the region. Tullahoma Regional Airport serves general aviation and skydiving activities. No other aircraft were reported involved.
As of Monday, officials continued to gather information on the injuries and circumstances. The NTSB has not yet released a preliminary report. Skydive Tennessee and authorities urged the public to await official updates as the investigation proceeds. Family members of those involved have not issued public statements.
